The Nigeria Police announced the arrest of Ikechukwu Uba, the commander of the Eastern Security Network (ESN), the armed affiliate of the Indigenous People of Biafra (IPOB). Uba, hailing from Emoha Mgbidi in Oru West LGA, Imo State, was apprehended by the Command’s Anti-Kidnapping Squad, led by CSP Oladimeji Odeyeyiwa. The arrest took place on December 16, 2023, at the suspect’s hideout.
According to the police statement, Uba confessed to being an ESN member, responsible for commanding the Mgbidi axis. He admitted orchestrating attacks on Omuma Police Station and soldiers at Mgbidi and Awo-Mmama. Furthermore, Uba claimed to receive funding from Simon Ekpa, based in Finland, to carry out terrorist attacks in the state. Simon Ekpa is associated with IPOB’s activities.
During the arrest, three other suspects were apprehended. A subsequent search at Uba’s residence yielded two locally made revolver long guns, one double barrel long gun, and 33 rounds of live cartridges.
Additionally, the police arrested HRH EZE Anozie Augustine Agbarambo, the Traditional Ruler of Isi Mgbidi, Emoha Mgbidi autonomous community. Agbarambo was alleged to be one of the sponsors of the ESN group.
In a separate incident, Sylvester Humble, residing in Umuoma Nekede, was arrested by operatives from Nekede Divisional Headquarters during an intelligence-led surveillance patrol. Humble, suspected of being involved in kidnapping, was found in possession of a locally made pistol.
The Commissioner of Police, Imo State, CP Aboki Danjuma, commended the operatives for their efforts and urged them to sustain the fight against crime. The CP assured residents that enhanced proactive security strategies were in place to ensure adequate policing during and after the Yuletide season. The arrested suspects will undergo comprehensive investigations and face legal proceedings.
